Sources for Immigration/Travel from England to Canada (NS and/or NL) 1800s

Question

Hi there. I am looking for some assistance on where to search for sources for an ancestor who was born in Dorset, England and emigrated to Nova Scotia and/or Labrador/Newfoundland, Canada between 1802 and 1826. If you have any websites to suggest on where I might find this information I would greatly appreciate it.

Answer 1

You could try this site

http://www.theshipslist.com/ships/passengerlists/index.htm

Other records did not start until 1865

https://www.bac-lac.gc.ca/eng/discover/immigration/immigration-records/passenger-lists/Pages/introduction.aspx

Comments

Thank you for this reference.  I was able to locate a person of interest, though I am not sure if it's my connection yet, it is a great resource~!

Answer 2

Unfortunately, there aren't many ships lists from back then but always worth a search just in case. This site is a little difficult to search but seems to have a lot of passenger lists for all countries https://www.immigrantships.net/

I've also heard of others finding more information in the newspapers from the port of departure or arrival so worth a check.

Good luck, mine went to NS in 1780s from Ireland. But may have landed in NB or New York and as they were Irish they may have left from Liverpool, England, so end up having to check loads of places.

Answer 3

The 1901 Canada census has the date of immigration which may help you track down the date your ancestors arrived.

 In this case perhaps not, it would only be useful if someone who arrived with the family was still alive in 1901.